Original Building

The front block of the museum building dates back to 1887. It features an elegant neo-Palladian design, a European style of architecture characterised by a highly symmetrical façade and the use of pediments above windows.

45-65: Liberation, Unrest... a New Nation

A collaboration between the National Archives of Singapore and the National Museum of Singapore, this exhibition brings the visitor through the tumultuous period of post-war Singapore up until its independence in August 1965. Using selected artefacts and a range of archival materials such as photographs, film and oral history interviews, the exhibition offers a glimpse of the cultural dynamism on the ground, amid the awakening of a political consciousness that contributed to the determined struggle for de-colonisation and self-rule. The exhibition allows visitors to find out about the journey that paved the way in Singapore’s quest for independence and a national identity, giving Singaporeans today an insight into how the nation was shaped and formed. To expand its reach, the exhibition will also travel to venues such as community centres, public libraries and schools after the launch at the National Museum of Singapore.

Supported by

Family Time

Take a trip through 700 years of Singapore's history with your little ones with our Family Time Guide to find out how life in this Lion City has changed over the centuries. On your journey, you will meet various historical figures as well as landmark objects in each phase of Singapore's history. Explore how people from different communities used to live, their aspirations and how they helped shape the Singapore we see today.

Museum guide

Download our museum guide (English, Chinese, Bahasa Melayu, Tamil) to find out about the many treasures in our various galleries. In this guide, you will also find the floor plan for easier navigation. Enjoy your visit!